Valperga Volume 3 by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a historical novel from the early 19th century centered on the life and struggles of Castruccio, Prince of Lucca, as he navigates his relationships with various characters against a backdrop of political intrigue and personal turmoil. The story delves into themes of power, love, suffering, and the darker aspects of human nature.
The volume opens with the witch of the forest in conversation with Bindo, prophesying trials that await Castruccio. Filled with anger and hatred toward Castruccio, Bindo is drawn into the witch's schemes. At the same time, Euthanasia mourns the transformation of Castruccio from a once-noble figure to a tyrant, experiencing emotional turmoil over his moral decline. These complex characters and their conflicting emotions set the stage for a deep exploration of destiny, moral corruption, and the personal cost of ambition.

CHAPTER I. The Witch of the Forest.
CHAPTER II. Beatrice in the Inquisition at Lucca.?Freed by Castruccio, at the Intercession of Euthanasia.
CHAPTER III. Beatrice, her Creed, and her Love.
CHAPTER IV. Beatrice's Narrative.
CHAPTER V. Beatrice resolves to take the Veil.?Euthanasia visits Florence.
CHAPTER VI. Beatrice meets Tripalda?is led by Bindo to the Witch's Cave.
CHAPTER VII. Euthanasia returns.?Beatrice meets the witch, and encounters Castruccio and Tripalda.?Dies.
CHAPTER VIII. Castruccio's Progress in Arms.?He brings Devastation to the Gates of Florence.?A Conspiracy formed against him.
CHAPTER IX. Euthanasia joins the Conspiracy.?Tripalda a Member.
CHAPTER X. Euthanasia removes to Lucca.?Conference with Tripalda.?Tripalda turns Informer.
CHAPTER XI. Euthanasia in Prison.
CHAPTER XII. Euthanasia sails for Sicily, and is lost.
CONCLUSION